10 Car Ignition Lock Meetups You Should Attend

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition may be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter up or downward to get the vehicle into the gear.

If it's not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. This can be easily solved by a mechanic, or a local locksmith for cars.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time the lost ignition key as well as the key can become worn out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease could solve this problem, allowing the wafers to slide into the proper position.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow to resolve this issue. It is also recommended to make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition cylinder lock repair or the ignition.

You could also tap the key with a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration, which could be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. But, be careful not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the above work, you should contact a locksmith to test the issue. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be the time to replace it all. Locksmiths can create an alternative key in the event that the issue is the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the issue then you'll need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It could also happen if someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car ignition locked.

Fortunately, this is an easy fix that does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column should determine if the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure since this can damage the key or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an alternative key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can aid. Just apply a small amount around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then gently tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this does not work, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

It could be that your key may be damaged if it will not turn on. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this can help.

If the pins within the lock aren't moving correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, you can try putting it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving within. If not, you can grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from becoming stuck.

A more serious problem is that it is worn or damaged, making it unable to engage the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to take your vehicle to a locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you can turn your car using a spare key, and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of a hammer (not the head). Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn the key of your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or simply due to wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition key replacement cost to make things move along.

You can also use a small hammer and tap very gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset pins that are out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure the gearbox of your car is either in park or neutral. A lot of newer vehicles come with a system which locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This will stop the ignition key from being turned.

If you've done all of this and still cannot get your key to rotate, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After you have removed the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one you purchased with the old one to ensure that they're the same. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that if this happens you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will begin again.